Back to School Night: A Night of Connection and Community

BY ANTHONY HIRTZEL ’27 & HEER PATEL ’27

Parents felt a wave of nostalgia as they went through their child’s day in school on Thursday, September 18, at Jericho’s annual Back to School Night. During this event, parents went from class to class to meet their children’s teachers and learn about their courses in 10-minute periods. In addition, parents also learned what teachers expect from their students, as well as their grading policies, in order to ensure success. 

Back to School Night provides families with the valuable opportunity to interact with not just their child’s teachers, but also the larger community. Superintendent Dr. Robert Kravitz explained the importance of interaction and connection, as they are built at Back to School Night. He said, “Everyone needs to meet people, whether it’s families meeting other families, meeting your teacher, meeting students, or meeting parents.”

High School Principal Mr. Brian Cummings said, “Back to School Night is important because it’s a great opportunity for parents to walk a night in their children’s shoes and see the great stuff we see here at Jericho every day.” 

With groups of parents walking through the halls of a high school, a common theme emerged—reminiscence. Jericho parent Marc Scharf shared he felt a sense of nostalgia coming back to high school. “I mean, I feel like I’m back in my prime. I didn’t even go here, but the feeling is the same,” Scharf said. Having parents relive a bell-to-bell schedule was an interactive way for them to see what their child’s typical day looks like here at Jericho.

Teachers agreed about the value of Back to School Night at Jericho. Business teacher Mr. Michael Goldin said, “It takes a village. Connecting parents and teachers is a great way to ensure success for their students.” 

It is clear that Back to School Night continues to remain a key tradition to the Jericho High School community, as it forges and deepens relationships that set students up for success.